Are SVTs caused by a bundle block?

[bundleblocker]

Just wondering. I have Afibs and occasional PVCs.  I also had some Ectocpic (sp) beats while on the treadmill. Is that the same as SVT? All these arrhytmias are so confusing and how do you know which ones you have?.

I guess they all show up on an EKG and that is the only way to tell for sure.

Maybe it doesn't matter?  

But I've heard the VT's are the life-threatening ones. How do you know if you have those?


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[bundleblocker]

Thanks so much Brooke!  Your explanation helps a lot.

[Brooke_38]

Hi Greta...

I know how confusing it can become with all the accronyms that are used in the world of arrhythmias:( Even I, an RN, often find myself scratching my head trying to figue things out. *lol*

An atrial ectopic beat is a problem in the electrical system of the heart. It is an extra heartbeat caused by a signal to the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) from an abnormal electrical focus. Otherwise known as a PAC (premature atrial contraction.)

A ventricular ectopic beat  is an extra heartbeat originating in the lower chamber of the heart (ventricles).  Also called a premature ventricular contraction (PVC), occurs before the beat triggered by the heart's normal function.

Is that the same as SVT? If the ectopic beat(s) were in the upper chambers it would be called SVE's (Supraventricular Ectopics). If they were seen in the lower chambers, it would be called Ventricular Ectopics.

Ventricular Tachycardia can be life threatening if no intervention is taken to terminate it. If it deteriorates to Ventricular Fibrillation, which is very serious. Collapse and sudden cardiac death will follow in minutes unless medical help is provided immediately. If treated in time, V-fib and V-tach  can be converted into normal rhythm. This requires shocking the heart with synch cardioversion.

How do you know if you have those? Some people who have developed a form of stable V-Tach, even rates at 200+ have few symptoms, but many have a dramatic drop in BP followed by loss of conciousness. And V-Fib causes unconsciousness in seconds, and if the disorder is not rapidly treated, death follows.

You're right, an EKG or monitor is the only way to know for sure what rhythm you're in...I hope this helps to explain some of your confusion:)